Occupant Packaging : Seat Part IV

With the advance of technology, the using of computer aided design(CAD) helps the engineers to reduce time in drawing the seat. In ergonomics aspects,engineers will simulate driver behaviour and measure key criteria such as reach,visibility,comfort,posture, biomechanics,strength and anthropometrics. This analysis will enable the team to make driver oriented decisions about cockpit design, while respecting the overall aerodynamics of the race car body.

Example of CAD

To optimize cockpit ergonomics, engineers will first create a digital model of each driver using a combination of laser scanning and manual anthropometrical techniques. The resulting virtual models will be used to analyze and improve specific accommodation issues such as driver comfort and security, and accessibility and serviceability of components inside the cockpit during pit stops—without the need to involve the actual drivers.
Example of CAD are:

a)  RAMSIS -  A 3D computer model simulating the driver,which is the leading CAD tool for ergonomic analysis of vehicle. Its goal is to overcome the limitation of 2D human templates, as well as to provide methods for predicting driver postures and comfort.

Instrument panel layouts by RAMsis

b) The SAMMIE system -  produced by an Ergonomics Design Consultancy dedicated to improving product,workplace, and service design for the benefit of the user and ultimately the producer and is it approved by SAE.

The SAMMIE system is a computer based Human Modeling tool. Its capabilities make it an invaluable tool to the designers and design teamw working on products that are used by people. The system offers the following advantages :

 

   1. 3D analysis of fit, reach, vision and posture.
   2. reduced timescale.
   3. early input of ergonomics expertise.
   4. rapid interactive design.
   5. improved communication.
   6. cost effective ergonomics.
 

Driver View Points-Sammie System